Ovenbird

Brief Description

A medium-sized New World warbler with a distinctive walking gait, resembling a small thrush. It is recognized by its olive back, white streaked underparts, and orange crown bordered by black.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: Breeds across eastern North America, winters in Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.
• Typical Sighting Period: Late spring to early fall in breeding grounds; fall and winter in non-breeding grounds.
• Plumage Details: Olive-brown upperparts, white underparts streaked distinctly with black. It has a notable orange crown bordered by black stripes, and a bold white eye-ring.
• Ecological Significance: As an insectivore, it plays a role in controlling insect populations. Its presence is often an indicator of healthy forest ecosystems.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern, but populations are declining in some areas due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
• Observation Tips: Often heard singing its loud, emphatic "teacher-teacher-teacher" song from the forest understory. Look for it foraging on the forest floor, walking rather than hopping. Best observed in mature deciduous and mixed forests.